Located in the centre of the Niagara region, you can find the beautiful township of Pelham. With a population of under 20,000, it is a small but mighty spot many business owners call home.
In fact, the next time you visit you will find it is bustling with dedicated business owners who are proud to showcase their homegrown creations.
Whether it be maple syrup, homemade treats or furniture refinishing, these three businesses take pride in offering their local goods and services to customers.
When it comes to maple syrup production, The Berings have been in the industry for generations.
What started as a hobby in 1937 has transformed into an operational farm that works hard at creating 100% pure maple syrup and other maple treats.
Now in the third generation, White Meadows Farms is run by duo Richard and Amanda Bering.
While much of the farm has changed over the years, the way the maple syrup is made has stayed the same.
“We still use wood. We still evaporate. All the maple syrup is actually boiled with the wood,” says Richard Bering, co-owner.
— Richard Bering
Beyond the timeless techniques used in the production process, White Meadows Farms also provides visitors with extraordinary experiences. One highlight is the enchanting sugar bush trek.
The farm has also embraced innovation and continues to introduce an eclectic range of maple-themed products.
Maple Onion Jam, Maple Mustard, Maple Baked Beans and Maple Vinegar are just some of the different twists that the farm has produced.
The dedication to the creation of the sweet liquid has made it a spot that has become a staple for more than just the local community.
“We get people from all over the world,” says Bering. “But there’s definitely a very loyal core local group that we see on at least a monthly basis.”
Twelve years ago, Stacey Duncan and Rachel Haymes purchased Nature’s Corner Bakey & Café.
Since then, the duo has been working hard on providing natural, organic, and sustainable food and drink options.
From the aromatic notes of organic fair trade coffee to the mouthwatering flavours of hand-crafted sandwiches, soups, baked goods and more, every item is a must-try.
“At this point, pretty much everything we make here is from scratch. We use organic flour and drug-free meats,” says Duncan. “Basically things that we would want to eat ourselves, we want to make sure we are providing that for other people.”
When it comes to one of their more popular treats, Duncan says it has to be the carrot cake. “It’s actually an old recipe my aunt had many years ago.”
However, it’s not just the food that Nature’s Corner Bakery & Café cares about, it’s also the people who are eating it.
“We just love to welcome people as soon as you walk into the door. We want you to be part of our community,” Duncan shared.
“We are trying to actually care about what people want.” This includes many factors, such as the quality of the products and the customer service.
As for the future, the local café will continue to expand and improve their food selections. “We’ll keep working on getting better products.”
With a lifelong passion for interior design, Vera Mckeown decided it was time to follow her dreams.
That’s why five years ago, after spending many years in the restaurant industry, she opened Creations By V, a furniture refinishing and home decor shop.
When first walking into the space, customers are greeted by an array of unique home decor accessories, with both seasonal and everyday items.
The space itself is a reflection of Mckeown’s keen eye for design, inviting customers to explore the possibilities of transforming their living spaces.
However, it’s more than just products. With an extensive knowledge of furniture refinishing, Mckeown is there to welcome both returning and new customers.
She is more than willing to help with DIY projects, refinishing people’s most beloved pieces or just answering any questions they may have.
The warm greeting is one thing this shop owner prides herself on. “I’m all about first impressions. I like to have nice jazz music playing and just let them enjoy themselves.”
Mckeown states that her goal is to make customers feel calm, loved and wanting to come back.
Through excellent customer service, repeat clients and word-of-mouth referrals, Mckeown has built a loyal following over the years.
— Creations by V owner Vera Mckeown
Pelham is filled with hardworking businesses dedicated to bringing locally sourced creations and services to the surrounding area.
Local spots like White Meadows Farms, Nature’s Corner Bakery & Café and Creations by V, really put the charm into this must-visit township. Spots like these are what truly make Pelham special.
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